We all dread it. We all know its stressful. But, we all have to do it. Registering for classes can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it is the beginning of the escape from your current schedule, which I'm sure you are utterly over by now, especially as finals approach. On the other hand, you may relish your Fall schedule, whether it be because you don't have to wake up until 11:00 on a Monday morning, you have just the right amount of time to grab coffee between each of your classes, or simply because you lucked out and your professors rock. But, whatever the case may be, no two semesters will ever be the same. Because we are approaching the days of signing up for classes and our fate being decided, here are some tips to ensure that you have a schedule that perfectly suits you and your academic habits!
1. Do not wait until the last minute to plan your classes.
The last thing you want to do is wake up at 8 AM on the morning of your scheduled day to sign up and not know where to begin, especially because there are other eager students signing up right as the same time you are. You should start browsing possible classes days prior to your sign up date, and write down the ones that may be a possible course. If you want to get really efficient, create your entire schedule! That way, all you have to do on your sign up day is enter the class' CRN numbers, and you are all registered!
2. Use RateMyProfessor!
Except word of mouth from other students who have taken a certain professor you know nothing about, RateMyProfessor.com is a sure telling way to find out almost anything about potential candidates for your selection! The best part about this is multiple people leave comments about each professor, so you won't be getting just one point of view from a friend or someone you know who has taken him or her. Don't narrow your options too quick based on opinions from your friends; their nightmare could be your success, for everyone learns and works differently!
3. What matters more to you: the time or the professor?
What is your motivating force to attend class? Is it because its at a convenient time of the day and fits into your personal schedule perfectly or because your professor matches up with your ways of learning? Decide what matters more to you. If the professor matters more to you, still be careful not take an 8 AM if you aren't a morning person just because you heard the tests given out are open note. Trust me, you probably won't go. And if the time of the class means more to you, take caution in signing up for a class where the professor may not be suited for you according to RateMyProfessor, just because the time is convenient for you. Hopefully you can find an equal balance!
4. Take classes that interest you!
For example, don't just waste a humanities credit on something that does not spark your interest at all; save it! You may have a chance to take a course that relates to your major or that you have a passion for during a later semester. Also, studying abroad is an awesome time to fulfill humanities/elective credits. The same goes for general education requirements-- take caution when choosing these!
5. Plan multiple schedules/have a back-up plan.
Everyone knows the seniors and the students with the most hours have priority when registering, so don't fret if some of the classes you planned to take are at capacity. Just don't let this surprise you the morning of your registration time! Have back-up times for each of your courses; for example, if the 1:00 PM history course it taken and you really need that credit, at least you would have acknowledged that there is also a 3:00 PM available, and you can snag that one.
6. Don't take too many types of the same course, if possible.
For example, unless your a finance major, don't take four math classes at once. It just will not work out. Try to create a little diversity in your schedule.
7. Be cautious when signing up for labs/longer-lasting classes.
If you want to take a lab on a Friday afternoon or a Wednesday night until 10, be my guest. Just know that these types of classes require patience, and if you have other stuff on your mind, you may not do well-- much less attend. Take your longer course on a day you know you won't have many other obligations, and it will be a breeze.
I hope these tips help and that you achieve a schedule that actually makes you excited for school! (That's a long shot, but hey, it could be possible!)
